BREAKING: Walt Disney World 2023 Update!

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January 10, 2023

Happy New Year from Walt Disney World Resort! 2022 was a big year and as they continued the 50th Anniversary celebration with cast, guests and the community, debuted the newest groundbreaking attraction with Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and reopened beloved experiences from Fantasmic! to the Walt Disney World Railroad.

2023 brings even more to look forward to – from the triumphant return of the Happily Ever After nighttime spectacular to the opening of TRON Lightcycle / Run at Magic Kingdom Park, and Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana at EPCOT!

WDW is excited to announce a few other updates they are making to improve the guest experience and to let the fans know they are listening to their feedback, including Annual Passholders, who are some of the most loyal guests:

Enjoy complimentary self-parking when staying at a Disney Resort hotel

Beginning this evening, Jan. 10, overnight self-parking will once again be offered complimentary to guests staying at Disney Resort hotels at Walt Disney World. This is a Disney difference many of you have asked us to bring back, and we’re happy to reintroduce it to make your vacation a little easier and more affordable – whether you’re road tripping across the country, renting a car or vacationing as a local Florida resident. As a reminder, Disney Resort hotel guests also continue to receive complimentary standard parking at Walt Disney World theme parks, daily early theme park entry (with valid admission and a park reservation) and complimentary on-site transportation options such as buses, monorails and Disney Skyliner.

Walt Disney World Annual Passholders: Park reservation requirements will be relaxed for visits after 2 p.m.*

Beginning in the next few months, Walt Disney World Annual Passholders will be able to visit the theme parks after 2pm without needing a park reservation, except on Saturdays and Sundays at Magic Kingdom Park. Pass blockout dates will continue to apply like they do today. While the theme park reservation system remains important to manage attendance in our parks, especially on busier days, we realize our Passholders enjoy more spontaneous visits – and this change will make that possible. Passholders will also receive access to Disney PhotoPass lenses and one complimentary Cinderella Castle Mural of Memories experience (age restrictions apply). Visit Cinderella Castle Mural of Memories and Disney PhotoPass Lenses for details, restrictions and other information.*

We’ll share a start date with Passholders soon for when these offerings will become available, as well as information about a new offering that is planned where you can create and share short Disney-themed video slideshows with favorite photos from your theme park visits.

Attraction photo downloads will be included with Disney Genie+ service

Beginning in the next few months, guests purchasing Disney Genie+ service will also receive digital downloads of their Disney PhotoPass attraction photos, taken in the park on the day of their purchase, at no additional charge. Attraction photos are taken while in the parks at more than a dozen of our most popular attractions including Space Mountain, Slinky Dog Dash, Test Track, Expedition Everest and more. I always love looking back at family photos at our favorite attractions – it’s a perfect way to remember and celebrate your theme park visit together. An exact launch date will be announced at a later time. Disney PhotoPass terms and conditions and expiration policy apply.

WDW also recently added the ability to modify Disney Genie+ attraction selections in the My Disney Experience app, began automatically making theme park reservations with the purchase of 1-day, 1-park specific tickets and made dining reservation policy more flexible if you need to modify or cancel.

Disney stated: We hope these updates make your next visit more convenient and enjoyable, so you can focus on making memories with your family, friends and loved ones. We’re grateful for fans like you and look forward to seeing you real soon!

*All offerings are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Walt Disney World Annual Pass Terms and Conditions apply.

BREAKING: Disneyland Resort 2023 Update

By

Robbie Bulus

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January 10, 2023

The Disneyland Resort just released some new updates to 2023! Check out what’s new.

Disney Statement: We are so thankful for our Disneyland Resort Guests, and are always listening for ways to enhance your experience. As you begin to plan trips to the Happiest Place on Earth in 2023, we have a few exciting updates to share!

Switch between parks even earlier with your Park Hopper ticket, beginning at 11 a.m. PT starting February 4

Beginning February 4, 2023, guests who enter a Disneyland Resort theme park with a Magic Key pass or a Park Hopper ticket may begin crossing over between the parks two hours earlier – starting at 11 a.m. PT!* This means even more magic and more fun in a day as Guests enjoy the best of what both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park have to offer.

Even more opportunities to visit with a $104 park ticket

Ready, set, book! We’re happy to share that the Disneyland Resort reservation calendar will offer nearly two months-worth of $104 park ticket dates throughout 2023, which means additional opportunities to enjoy our lowest one-day, one-park ticket price while creating moments destined to become memories.** And with so many exciting new offerings from the two new nighttime spectaculars –”Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland park and “World of Color – ONE” at Disney California Adventure park – to Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, all opening January 27, plus returning favorite festivals, classic attractions, delicious food and beverage offerings and so much more, 2023 is a fantastic time to visit the Disneyland Resort!

Disneyland

Complimentary Disney PhotoPass digital attraction photos for you to take home as a souvenir

So many of us have treasured memories captured in the form of attraction photos – whether it’s huge screams on your first Space Mountain ride or victorious smiles crossing the finish line on Radiator Springs Racers, these are some of the best moments to take home from your visit. As a ‘thank-you’ to our incredible Disneyland Resort Guests, we’re excited to make Disney PhotoPass digital photo downloads captured on any Disney PhotoPass available attraction during a park visit, complimentary for all ticketed park guests on the Disneyland app starting February 4, throughout the Disney100 celebration at the Disneyland Resort.***

More opportunities to join the Magic Key program

We’ve been thrilled to see the incredible ongoing demand for our Magic Key program, which provides reservation-based admission to one or both Disneyland Resort theme parks throughout the year – not to mention the chance to unlock the magic visit after visit! Disneyland Resort will make select Magic Key passes available for new sales from time to time throughout 2023 as pass inventory becomes available. Continue to check Disneyland.com/MagicKey for pass on sale dates and availability.****

And as we shared before, our Southern California resident ticket offer is a golden opportunity for eligible guests to purchase a special 3-day weekday ticket valid through May 25 and enjoy what this new year has in store for Disneyland Resort. See you in the parks!

Entertainment, experiences, and offerings are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Both Theme Park reservations and valid admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.

*The ability to visit the other park will be subject to that park’s capacity limitations, operational hours, closures and other restrictions, and is not guaranteed, and Park Hopper hours are subject to change without notice. Please check the Park Hopper calendar and the Disneyland app for the most up-to-day Park Hopper hours, as they could change, depending on the day and park.

**Park reservations are also required for park entry, and reservations are limited and subject to availability. Please check for ticket and date availability at Disneyland.com.

*** Disney PhotoPass benefits may not be redeemed for cash or credit and are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Magic Key holders with Disney PhotoPass digital download privileges may not apply any discounts or credits towards their Magic Key pass or otherwise, based on the complimentary Disney PhotoPass digital attraction photo download benefit. Disney PhotoPass terms and conditions and expiration policy apply, and online registration required.

**** The quantity of passes and pass types available for renewal or purchase may be limited and passes or a pass type may be unavailable from time to time or at any given time. Both a park reservation and valid pass required for park entry. Magic Key park reservations are limited and subject to the availability of park reservations allocated to Magic Key passes, blockout dates, and capacity. Park entry is not guaranteed for any date for any pass. Magic Key Terms and Conditions at Disneyland.com/MagicKeyTerms apply.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever on Digital Feb 1 and 4k Blu-Ray Feb 7

By

Robbie Bulus

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January 9, 2023

The legacy continues. Marvel Studios’ Black Panther: Wakanda Forever arrives on Digital February 1 and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD February 7. Fans can add the film to their collection and access exclusive bonus content including deleted scenes, a gag reel and audio commentary by esteemed filmmakers Ryan Coogler, Joe Robert Cole and Autumn Durald Arkapaw.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever will also stream on Disney+ February 1. Plus, a two-movie bundle will be available on all major digital platforms.

Additionally, collectors can find two limited-edition SteelBook® designs only at Best Buy. Artist Dorothea Taylor designed one SteelBook that highlights the Wakanda warriors and Orlando Arocena recreated the vibrant world of Talokan for the other.

Walmart will also offer an exclusive 4K Ultra HD edition with custom artwork and a limited-edition Black Panther enamel pin.

Bonus Features*
Gag Reel

• Take a look at some of the lighthearted moments on the set of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Audio Commentary

• Listen to Ryan Coogler, Joe Robert Cole, and Autumn Durald Arkapaw discuss the film.

Featurettes

• Envisioning Two Worlds – Uncover the making of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever through the lens and leadership of co-writer/director Ryan Coogler, production designer Hannah Beachler, and costume designer Ruth Carter.
• Passing the Mantle – Follow the evolution of the Black Panther through the films. In tracing Shuri, Ramonda, and Riri’s journeys through the film, this featurette explores what legacy ultimately means in Wakanda and how it will resonate with MCU viewers for years to come.

Deleted Scenes

• Outside The Scope – Okoye has a shocking standoff with Ayo and the Dora Milaje. Aneka makes a challenging decision.
• The Upstairs Toilet – Ross infiltrates the NSA in disguise in an attempt to uncover information.
• Daughter of the Border – After a conversation with her Uncle, Okoye is faced with a daunting choice.
• Anytime, Anywhere – In Haiti, Shuri and Okoye share a bittersweet moment.

*Bonus features vary by product and retailer

NEW Disney Munchlings arrive at shopDisney and Disney Parks

By

Socalthrills Staff

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January 9, 2023

The Disney Munchlings are BACK with two brand-new collections – Garden Goodness and Fruity Finds.

Disney Munchlings, which originally debuted in September 2022, are the newest line of delectably cute plush, themed after fan-favorite foods and treats. Mirrored after popular Disney pals, the Disney Munchlings are a must-have for any collector.

You never know where a Disney Munchlings will pop up next!

The Garden Goodness collection features:

• Loaded Baked Potato Mickey Mouse
• Corn Elote Donald Duck
• Stuffed Pepper Winnie the Pooh
• Lettuce Wrap Bambi
• Avocado Breakfast Bagel Mike
• Spiced Carrot Cake Thumper

The Fruity Finds collections contains:

• Acai Bowl Angel
• Blueberry Pancakes Minnie Mouse
• Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Piglet
• Fresh Coconut Water Daisy Duck
• Banana Nut Bread King Louis
• Fruit & Granola Parfait White Rabbit

The classic blind bag Disney Munchlings are available for $16.99 and are 4-5 inches tall. And, if you’re looking for something big to cuddle, our medium size Avocado Breakfast Bagel Mike and Acai Bowl Angel Disney Munchlings, available for $34.99 at 15 inches tall, are perfect.

Hurry on over to shopDisney, Disneyland Resort, and Walt Disney World Resort, home for the Disney Munchlings, starting today, January 9, 2023 and let the fun begin!

New LEGO Botanical Collection sets make perfect gifts

By

Robbie Bulus

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January 8, 2023

The LEGO Group has announced it is growing its Botanical Collection further by introducing two new sets for adult builders: a LEGO® Wildflower Bouquet and a LEGO® Dried Flower Centrepiece.

The LEGO Group launched its Botanical Collection in 2021, with the introduction of the LEGO® Flower Bouquet and LEGO® Bonsai Tree. The Collection has since been expanded with more brick-based plants, including the LEGO® Orchid and the LEGO® Succulents. The two new sets announced today have been designed to help adult builders ‘grow closer’ and develop stronger bonds with friends or family while undertaking the social act of building them together.

“We want the two new sets we’re launching today to help people ‘grow closer’. Whether that’s buying the set for a loved one for an occasion such as Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day, or at any other point in the year just as a little thank you. Why not give a longer-lasting LEGO plant and get to spend some valuable time building it together? We know the joy that plants can bring to people and our growing LEGO Botanical Collection has been created with that in mind. Plants are a great way to bring people together, and show our appreciation for one another,” said Jamie Berard, Senior Design Manager at the LEGO Group.

Builders can create the 939-piece LEGO® Wildflower Bouquet and 812-piece LEGO® Dried Flower Centrepiece from the 1st February, just in time for Valentine’s Day, with the sets available to buy in-stores and online for 59.99 EUR/USD and 49.99 EUR/USD, respectively.

The LEGO Botanical Collection is part of the LEGO Sets for Adults range, which gives adults immersive building experiences that let their creativity bloom, as well as providing a building opportunity for plant lovers to create masterpieces they can proudly display in their home when finished.

LEGO® Wildflower Bouquet
Crafted entirely from intricate LEGO pieces, the Wildflower Bouquet features eight species with adjustable stems. Budding florists and flower lovers can spend hours building and identifying the blooms inspired by cornflowers, lavender, Welsh poppies, cow parsley, leatherleaf ferns, gerbera daisies, larkspurs, and lupins.

Once complete, these LEGO flowers can be displayed in a favourite vase to become an eye-catching piece of home decor that will plant seeds of joy in whichever room they’re placed. The bouquet has been designed to complement the previously released LEGO® Flower Bouquet, so builders can either create two separate bunches, or one large bouquet.

LEGO® Dried Flower Centrepiece
Builders can cultivate a piece of home decor that requires zero maintenance with the LEGO® Dried Flower Centrepiece. The set is a reminder of the subtle, calm, muted tones of fall and includes a gerbera and rose as its focal point.

Once complete, it can be hung on the wall, used as a beautiful centrepiece or – when combined with one or two other sets – can be used as a striking table decoration that will be cherished forever. The buildable model has a split design which allows two people to construct it at the same time, providing the perfect way to spend quality time with a friend or family member.

For both sets, builders can either use physical building instructions or use a digital device to access the LEGO Builder App. The LEGO Builder App allows fans to store instructions, build together with loved ones at the same time, as well as view, zoom and rotate their creations as they build the real model.

The LEGO Group has introduced the two new sets as a way for people to relax, unwind and unearth some mindfulness in their otherwise busy lives. This is especially pertinent as the LEGO Group’s recent Play Well Study 2022 research* showed 80% of adults are actively seeking new ways to unwind*, with the vast majority (87%) adding that play helps them relax and feel calm.

To find out more about the new LEGO Botanical Building Sets, visit:
www.lego.com/adults-welcome/botanical-collection

The LEGO Group To Celebrate 100 Years of Disney

By

Robbie Bulus

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January 8, 2023

As Disney marks its 100th anniversary in 2023, the LEGO Group will join the celebrations by inviting families to share the wonder of storytelling, imagination, and creative play that LEGO® Disney has inspired over the last 24 years.

Using the ultimate creative medium of the LEGO® brick, the two long standing partners will honor fan-favorite Disney moments, capture the magic of exciting new Disney stories, and bring friends and families together to dream, build and create with magical new LEGO® Disney products and play experiences unveiled throughout 2023.

“Since we launched our first LEGO® DUPLO® Winnie the Pooh range in 1999, LEGO Disney has inspired joyful play for Disney and LEGO fans of all ages. From voyages across high seas and valiant quests, to the mesmerizing magic of Disney Princess castles, LEGO Disney has enchanted families around the world by bringing fantasy to life and inspiring new adventures using the LEGO brick.” Commented Casper Rafn Voigt, Head of Product for LEGO Disney at the LEGO Group, “We’re honoured to be collaborating with Disney to celebrate this momentous occasion as we continue to create magic and unforgettable storytelling experiences together.”

Coming on February 1, celebrate Disney with this LEGO® BrickHeadz™ | Disney 100th Celebration (40622) set, featuring Oswald the Lucky Rabbit (Disney’s first character), Mickey Mouse (the first ever animated character), Snow White (the star of Disney’s first feature film), and Tinker Bell – the first Disneyland mascot. Assemble the models, set them on their individual baseplates and display them anywhere. Snow White’s torso includes a decoration. The set makes a fun, collectible gift for Disney fans.

The LEGO Group joins a host of other global brands for the Disney 100 Years of Wonder celebration that honours the storytellers, fans and families who together spark the wonder and magic of Disney.

Legoland CA Kicks off 2023 with Ninjago Weekends

By

Robbie Bulus

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January 7, 2023

It’s time to start your Spinjitzu training, master the power of the elements and practice your ninja moves! LEGO^® NINJAGO^® Weekends at LEGOLAND^®California Resort officially kick-off January 21 – February 20, in celebration of the opening of the Park’s new LEGO^® NINJAGO^® Training Camp. LEGO^® NINJAGO Weekends allow guests to fully immerse themselves into the NINJAGO universe and enjoy fun-filled activities, shows and entertainment.

LEGO NINJAGO Training Camp offers guests the ultimate ninja training test. The Park’s newest addition features interactive play areas filled with slides, obstacles and even Master Wu’s sailing ship, giving guests of all ages the chance to test their balance, agility and strength. The new play area is not only ADA compliant but ADA inclusive and offers guests wheelchair access to elevated platforms, plus sound and interactive elements to support sensory play at appropriate heights.

This exclusive event on weekends invites guests to explore LEGO^® NINJAGO^® World, the Imagination Zone, and the lawn in Miniland U.S.A featuring entertainment, attractions and excitement, including:

Shows

School of Spinjitzu: Are you ready to kick, chop, spin, and balance like a ninja? Bring your best moves to this active training-style show where you become a “ninja”
Ceremony of the Elements: Join Master Wu and your favorite NINJAGO ninjas to test your skills and celebrate in the final NINJAGO show of the day
Taiko Drummers: Enjoy the live upbeat sounds from the Taiko Drummers group!

Activities

Tranquility Kid’s Yoga: Relax, stretch, and channel your inner zen with Kid’s Yoga at the Elemental Stage
Meet and greet LEGO NINJAGO characters: Come meet your favorite NINJAGO LEGO characters including Kai, Jay, Nya and the newest Resort LEGO character, Master Wu
Golden Ninja Scavenger Hunt: The NINJAGO ninja’s golden weapons have gone missing from their dojo! Help find each golden weapon scattered across NINJAGO World and Imagination Zone and take a photo of each. Receive a NINJAGO reward when completed!
Serpentine Build: Honor the Venomari Tribe and unite with fellow serpentine members by participating in a LEGO snake build!

LEGO NINJAGO Weekends is included in the price of admission along with everything that LEGOLAND^® has to offer. Guests can purchase tickets and reserve their spot through LEGOLAND California’s reservation system for their desired park visit. After a day of fun, have a ninja sleepover at one of the NINJAGO themed hotel rooms at the onsite LEGOLAND Hotel, located right next to the park entrance. For more Resort information, operating schedule and to make reservations, visit: www.legoland.com/california.

Amazon and Disney team up to launch Hey Disney!

By

Socalthrills Staff

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January 7, 2023

You’ll soon be able to experience the magic of Disney in a new way—both at home and in select Disney Resort hotel rooms. The Hey Disney! experience launches later this year, but Amazon offered the public the first sneak peek during a live demonstration at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

Info on This Page:

Hey Disney! is a first-of-its-kind voice assistant that will give customers access to a wide range of Disney magic through Echo devices at home and as a complimentary service at select Disney Resorts hotels. Disney built the experience using the Alexa Custom Assistant, a voice AI foundation upon which the company could easily create its own custom voice assistant that coexists with Alexa. This new voice assistant, termed the “Disney Magical Companion,” is the voice of Hey Disney!

The service will be available for purchase in the U.S. in the coming months. Customers who have purchased and enabled it can say, “Hey Disney!”—a new wake word Amazon created—to enjoy experiences featuring more than 20 Disney, Pixar, and Star Wars characters. Customers can interact with these fan-favorites—like Mickey Mouse, Dory from Finding Nemo, and Olaf from Frozen—to hear an array of jokes, play trivia, listen to soundscapes, and more.

How does Hey Disney! work?

Customers will access the service through Echo smart speakers at home and Disney Resort hotel rooms. Guests staying in select Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort hotels will be able to ask questions about park hours, request fresh towels, and access other helpful features.

Hey Disney! will also feature support for Disney’s MagicBand+, the smart and interactive wearable device that visitors use at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort to interact with shows, enter the park, redeem Lightning Lane access, and more. For example, when you answer trivia questions, MagicBand+ transforms into a game show-style buzzer and reacts with lights and vibrations. It will even light up and buzz when your alarm or timer goes off.

An entirely new experience for Disney fans

“As a first-of-its-kind voice assistant, Hey Disney! continues Disney’s long tradition of using technology to provide the coolest, most convenient experiences to make your visit better,” said Dan Soto, Disney’s vice president of technology and digital. “We’re always looking for new ways to open the door to even more stories, making them richer, more immersive, and forever memorable to guests and fans, whether they are at home or visiting Disney Parks. We can’t wait for fans and families to discover all the surprising and delightful interactions we’ve built into this experience.”

If you ask Hey Disney! for the weather, Olaf from Frozen might tell you it’s cold out. Or if you’re in the mood to cook a nice meal, you can ask Hey Disney! to play the soundscape from Ratatouille.

Dana Alia, a senior manager on the Alexa team, said Disney wanted to delight fans in a new way. “Disney was really focused on making something that brings you into their resort experience in a way that hadn’t been done before,” she said.

The goal to create a new, unique experience also came with challenges. “In a lot of collaborations, there’s a template. You’ve done something similar before,” said Erin Egan, who leads the collaboration for Amazon. “In this case, we were both starting from blank. This added complexity but meant we had the freedom to define it.”

An innovation in storytelling

Aaron Rubenson, a vice president of Alexa, said customer education was another important challenge. “One of the fun areas for innovation was imagining how we were going to teach people about the feature,” he said.

His team helped Disney build an introduction that guides fans and helps them get started. The team added various hints for users as they interact with Hey Disney!, like prompts to hear jokes or play trivia. The hints help to make sure customers at home and in the resort get the most out of the experience.

“Disney is the master storyteller, and its stories are so powerful for so many people,” Rubenson said. “Now people can keep talking to a character and continue with the storyline when they go back to their room at the end of the day—or when they go home when the vacation is over. It’s gratifying to imagine that we’re a part of literally bringing that magic home.”

Disney began installing Echo family devices with Hey Disney! in limited hotel rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Hey Disney! will also be available for customers to purchase soon in the U.S. in the Alexa Skills Store or included with an Amazon Kids+ subscription in the coming months.

New Funko Disney100 Collection Coming soon

By

Robbie Bulus

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January 6, 2023

Bring a piece of Disney home with the Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary collection from Funko. Check out some of the new collection below and pre-order at Amazon and other retailers.

POP Moments: Lion King- Hakuna Matata $29.96

Let your worries melt away with Pop! Simba, Pop! Pumba, and Pop! Timon. Celebrate Disney’s 100th Anniversary by completing your The Lion King collection with this exclusive Pop! Hakuna Matata Moment, featuring your favorite carefree characters as they stroll across a tree trunk bridge. Vinyl figure is approximately 6.4-inches tall. Find more Funko products at Walmart.

POP Disney: D100- Mickey(split color) $14.90

It sure is swell to join Pop! Mickey Mouse in a celebration. This exclusive Pop! Mickey Mouse is beside himself with joy to celebrate the Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary. One half of this special-edition Pop! Mickey Mouse is in black and white, while the other half is in full color. Expand your Disney Classics collection with all of Mickey Mouse’s friends. Vinyl figure is approximately 3.79-inches tall. Find more Funko products at Hot Topic

POP Disney: D100- Goofy(Vintage)

Gawrsh! Exclusive Pop! Goofy wants to join you for some celebratory fun. He’s looking quite dapper in his original iteration, in black and white. He’s also ready to celebrate the Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary. Expand your Disney Classics collection with all of Goofy’s friends. Vinyl figure is approximately 4.89-inches tall.

POP Icons: D100- Walt w/drawing $11.99

Bring a piece of Disney home with the man, the mouse, and the moment that started it all. Welcome Walt Disney himself into your home with Pop! Walt with Drawing. This charming greyscale Pop! captures the wonder of imagination with a sketch of Steamboat Willie held in Pop! Walt’s hands. Vinyl figure is approximately 4-inches tall. Get it here.

POP Disney: D100- Oswald w/CH

Hop on over and meet the first character created by Walt Disney, Pop! Oswald! Celebrate Disney’s 100th Anniversary by welcoming Pop! Oswald the Lucky Rabbit into your home! Reunite this rabbit with the rest of his friends in your Disney Classics collection. There’s a 1 in 6 chance you may find the chase of Pop! Oswald with top hat and cane. Vinyl figures are approximately 3.25 and 4-inches tall. Chase variants are shipped at random. Receiving a chase with purchase is not guaranteed.

POP Art Cover: D100- Oswald $19.99

Hop on over and meet the first character created by Walt Disney, Pop! Oswald! Celebrate Disney’s 100th Anniversary by welcoming Pop! Oswald the Lucky Rabbit into your home with this Pop! Art Cover featuring the black, white, and blue cartoon art for Walt Disney’s Oswald the Lucky Rabbit in Rival Romeos! Reunite this rabbit with the rest of his friends in your Disney Classics collection. Vinyl figure is approximately 4.15-inches tall. Approximate dimensions of protective case: 8.15” W x 7.75 ”H x 3.25” D. Get it here.

Vinyl SODA: Disney- Oswald w/CH

Hop on over and meet the first character created by Walt Disney, Oswald! Reunite this rabbit with the rest of his friends in your Disney Classics collection. Only 15,000 of this collectible were made! There’s a 1 in 6 chance you may find the chase of black and white Oswald. Vinyl figures are approximately 3.9-inches tall. Chase variants are shipped at random. Receiving a chase with purchase is not guaranteed.

Theatre Review: Mean Girls

By

Cori Graham

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January 6, 2023

This show is SO FETCH! If you want to sit with Regina George, it’s important to remember that you can only wear a ponytail once a week, you can only wear track pants on Fridays, and most notably, on Wednesdays, we wear pink. Now that you have been reminded of the rules, get dressed and come to the Hollywood Pantages to see Mean Girls.

Fans of the 2004 film Mean Girls will get to see their favorite characters and hear their favorite one-liners. The show opens with a break in the 4th wall from Janice Sarkisian and Damian Hubbard letting you know that you are about to be told a cautionary tale: The tale of Cady Heron, a girl who was raised by Biologists in Kenya and brought to complete her last two years of High School in Illinois. Cady’s goal for moving to Illinois is to be “socialized” and make friends that aren’t animals, but she quickly learns that the savannah has a lot more in common with an American high school than she expected.

Janice and Damian quickly adopt Cady to be friends with them and try to help her find which group she will ultimately fit in best. However, an age-old feud between Janice and North Shore High School queen bee Regina George inspires Janice to get Cady to spy on Regina and her group of “Plastics” by pretending to befriend them. Cady joins the plastics with little incident and finds herself sitting with Regina George, Gretchen Wieners, and Karen Smith at lunch.

Cady starts falling for Aaron Samuels, a boy in her Calculus class who is Regina’s ex-boyfriend. Soon, Cady is deep in a long con and starts to be unable to separate the spy-work from reality as she slowly begins to replace Regina George in the plastics at the expense of her other relationships. Cady quickly learns a critical lesson in being authentic and how far you can go by just being nice.

This musical was just delightful. The story framed in the relationships discussed in Rosalind Wiseman’s book, “Queen Bees & Wannabes” written for film and stage by Tina Fey of SNL fame, translates well into a stage musical. The songs are imaginative and funny; “Meet the Plastics” is a hilarious introduction to Regina, Gretchen, and Karen. The song “Stupid With Love” which had an African vibe to the music, harkening back to Cady’s feeling of home. “What’s Wrong with Me?” is a great recurring theme that, despite the sad song title, gathers laughs each time.

There are clearly a few stand out performers on this tour. Lindsay Heather Pearce (Janis Sarkisian), whose vocal chops are matched with perfectly delivered lines and comedic timing, has you laughing almost every time she comes on stage. Pearce’s onstage dynamic with Eric Huffman (Damian Hubbard) has amazing chemistry. They are both perfect for these roles and the audience definitely agreed, with roaring applause after their scenes, for their curtain call, and especially after Janice’s song “I’d Rather Be Me”. Eric Huffman’s tap number in “Stop” was an absolute delight.

English Bernhardt (Cady Heron) is an amazing vocalist, I found myself wondering if we would see her as Elphaba in Wicked in the future…but that’s not why we are here. Her performance as Cady Heron was wonderful not only in her vocals, but in her ability to quickly build a critical relationship with the audience where we felt for her despite some of the not-so-nice things she found herself doing.

Morgan Ashley Bryant was HILARIOUS as Karen, the least intelligent of the Plastics—her performance in “Sexy” was just full of silly lines, great gags, and phenomenal vocals. She ensured that Karen is (somehow) a feminist icon. Adante Carter was a very endearing Aaron Samuels, playing the part of Cady’s love interest in a way that pulled the audience into their tumultuous relationship.

The set design was interesting, with a set that is about 75% digital, they were able to create multiple scenes with the backdrop barely moving except to bring out a practical set piece. This approach initially felt like it could look amateur, like a high school play (which it technically is a play about high school, so it works), but you start to forget about the digital screen backdrop quickly as it seamlessly creates dynamic scenes for the characters to move in and out.

Conductor Chris Kong is visible below the stage, which was a nice change as it feels more shows are leaning toward an onstage orchestra. He did a great job maintaining the comedic timing and pacing of the show.

Overall, if you have ever been high school age, or are approaching those years yourself, this is a great cautionary tale to see for yourself. The stage format gave Tina Fey the ability to add a little more heart and message to the show. It was heartwarming, funny, and fun…an absolute must-see.

Mean Girls is now playing at Hollywood Pantages until January 29. Get your tickets here or by calling the box office for more info. Location: 6233 Hollywood Blvd. (½ block East of Hollywood & Vine) Phone: (323) 468-1770.

Mean Girls the Musical will also play at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Orange County from March 7 – 19, 2023. Tickets on sale at scfta.org.

‘World of Color – ONE’ Details at DCA Debuting Jan. 27

By

Socalthrills Staff

-

January 5, 2023

As part of the Disney100 celebration at the Disneyland Resort, the new nighttime spectacular “World of Color – ONE” will debut at Disney California Adventure park on Jan. 27! With an inspiring message that illustrates the storytelling legacy Walt Disney began a century ago, this remarkable production by Disney Live Entertainment is just one of many new experiences and special offerings coming to the resort in honor of The Walt Disney Company’s 100^th anniversary in 2023 – including the debut of another all-new nighttime spectacular, “Wondrous Journeys” at Disneyland park.

Here is more about the powerful story in “World of Color – ONE” and share how guests can experience the show when it debuts. First, here’s a sneak peek!

“World of Color – ONE” celebrates how a single action, like a drop of water, creates a ripple that can grow into a wave of change. Guests will discover how it only takes one action to make an impact on the people in our lives and the world around us, just as one man – Walt Disney – started the wave that has continued to grow and inspire people around the globe for 100 years.

World of Color

The spectacular features songs and stories of some of the most courageous, loving and inspiring characters who dared to be wavemakers and change the world. In fact, this is the first Disneyland Resort nighttime spectacular to feature characters, music and moments from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, the Avengers, and Star Wars in the same production. Moments from favorite films such as “The Lion King,” “Moana,” “Coco,” “Mulan,” “Soul,” and others emerge on an immense water screen that can span up to 380 feet across.

World of Color

This spectrum of stories is set to a beautiful musical score comprised of 18 different compositions, including a new, original song “Start a Wave,” which was written by GRAMMY nominated artist Cody Fry and features lead vocals performed by singer-songwriter and actress Loren Allred.

World of Color

In addition to being a driving metaphor in the story of “World of Color – ONE,” water plays a starring role in transforming Paradise Bay during the show. Each musical moment is brought to life by mist screens and 1,200 dancing fountains, combined with brilliant lighting, projection, laser, fog and flame effects. And guests can even wear their MagicBand+ to experience another dimension of storytelling to “World of Color – ONE”! Their band will enhance the effects with synchronized dancing lights and vibrations.

World of Color

This immersive journey builds to an emotional and uplifting finale that highlights how, when we come together and combine our efforts, many drops can become an ocean. Guests will walk away feeling inspired to start a ripple of their own and be the one to make a wave for the future.

When “World of Color – ONE” debuts, guests will be able to access viewing areas for the show through a virtual queue system available only via the Disneyland app.* Distribution for the complimentary virtual queue will begin at noon, daily (subject to availability), and is available for guests who have entered Disney California Adventure park for the day or have entered Disneyland park with a Park Hopper ticket.**

On nights when there are multiple showtimes, distribution for additional showtimes will begin immediately after distribution for the first showtime has ended. If guests have obtained a virtual queue selection, they will enter their designated viewing area for their designated show time via one of the two marked entrance points (Blue or Yellow) approximately 30-45 minutes before the show begins. How-to details on the virtual queue system are available at Disneyland.com.

If the virtual queue reaches capacity, check in with a cast member at the Paradise Bay viewing area shortly before “World of Color – ONE” begins for walk-up viewing options. Joining the virtual queue is not required, but it is highly recommended as walk-up viewing options for each performance are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Magical Walt Disney World Special Offers for 2023!

By

Robbie Bulus

-

January 5, 2023

This Spring and Summer, you can stay in the magic with special offers at Walt Disney World Resort.

Stay in the magic with this special offer—and make sweet summer memories to savor!*

You can get up to a $750* (or more see details below) Disney Dining Promo Card when you purchase a non-discounted 5-night, 4-day vacation package that includes a room at a select Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort and theme park ticket(s).

This offer is valid for arrivals most nights July 1 to July 10, 2023 and August 1 to September 14, 2023. A lower-value Disney Dining Promo Card may also be available when you purchase this package during other select summer arrival dates. Visit the Offers Page for the full offer details.

Stay in the magic with this special offer—and spring into fun or make sweet summer memories at Walt Disney World Resort.

You can save on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels:

Save up to 25% on stays most nights April 10 through July 10, 2023
Save up to 20% on stays most nights March 1 through March 31, 2023

There’s magic all around at the Walt Disney World Resort. And you can enjoy even more enchantment with special benefits for Guests of Disney Resort hotels—including early entry to the theme parks 30 minutes before regular park opening to experience select attractions (with valid park admission and a theme park reservation).

This offer is valid for select Disney Resort hotels. Visit the Offers Page for the full offer details.

Ready to book? Click here for a FREE QUOTE!

*The number of packages available for this offer is limited. Everyone in the same room must be on the same package. Advance reservations are required. Minimum 4 day theme park ticket required. Minimum 4-night length of stay required.

Tickets are valid beginning on date of check-in and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on length of ticket. Visit disneydestinationstickets.com/usage for details. $750 Disney Dining Promo Card for stays at select Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts.

The value of the Disney Dining Promo Card is determined by Disney Resort hotel and length of stay. One Disney Dining Promo Card per room—valid for packages that include up to $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card. If a package includes more than $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card, the value will be distributed across more than one Disney Dining Promo Card.

Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Offer excludes the following room types: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, and Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Gratuities are not included. To visit the theme parks, theme park reservations AND the tickets included in this package are required for the same park on the same date for each person in your party ages 3 and up. Theme park reservations are limited and subject to availability. View the theme park reservation availability calendar.

Socalthrills.com

BREAKING: Walt Disney World 2023 Update!

BREAKING: Disneyland Resort 2023 Update

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever on Digital Feb 1 and 4k Blu-Ray Feb 7

NEW Disney Munchlings arrive at shopDisney and Disney Parks

New LEGO Botanical Collection sets make perfect gifts

The LEGO Group To Celebrate 100 Years of Disney

Legoland CA Kicks off 2023 with Ninjago Weekends

Amazon and Disney team up to launch Hey Disney!

How does Hey Disney! work?

An entirely new experience for Disney fans

An innovation in storytelling

New Funko Disney100 Collection Coming soon

POP Moments: Lion King- Hakuna Matata $29.96

POP Disney: D100- Mickey(split color) $14.90

POP Disney: D100- Goofy(Vintage)

POP Icons: D100- Walt w/drawing $11.99

POP Disney: D100- Oswald w/CH

POP Art Cover: D100- Oswald $19.99

Vinyl SODA: Disney- Oswald w/CH

Theatre Review: Mean Girls

‘World of Color – ONE’ Details at DCA Debuting Jan. 27

Magical Walt Disney World Special Offers for 2023!

Stay in the magic with this special offer—and make sweet summer memories to savor!*

Stay in the magic with this special offer—and spring into fun or make sweet summer memories at Walt Disney World Resort.

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